Day 1

As expected, today was full of surprises. Initially, the morning session could best be characterized as ordered chaos. Around 100 children showed up for three classes designed to care for 25 children each. We definitely had an interesting batch of children young and old each bringing to us their own set of challenges. All of them were beyond excited to have us with them, and despite the lack of organization, their positive energy was exceptionally encouraging. We begin our first visits to the orphans' homes tomorrow, and we are both excited and nervous. We will keep you updated as our adventures and challenges progress.

سلام

Mary, Ismailia

One Week!

It's finally here. I take off for the motherland tomorrow and the nerves finally set in last night after some last minute phone calls and final hang-outs with the local family. In one week our entire Serve to Learn team will be together to set off on our adventure. I've been to Egypt a number of times now but never have I been this anxious to go. Leaving the country alone for the first time is an experience in itself, but this is also the first time in which I will be visiting Egypt not as a tourist but ready for a totally different adventure. I can't say my bags are fully packed as I head off to do all my last minute shopping today, but I am definitely ready for Ismalaia and all it has to throw at me.

Your STL blogger,

Mary

10 More Days and Counting

I am leaving for Egypt now and the next dispatches will be from our volunteers...Thoughts and prayers for them all!